The Division of Early Childhood Development(DECD) is excited to announce the reopening of the Child Care Quality Incentive Grant Program.

The focus of the Quality Incentive Grant is on supporting projects that are related to improving the professionalism and service quality of child care programs or improving children's school readiness.

Grants will be awarded on a quarterly basis, at the end of April, July, October, and January. Awards will be based upon merit, not the submittal date.

Applicant Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be licensed or registered, in good standing, and have operated a child care facility for at least 2 years.

Applicants must show proof of current participation in the DECD accreditation or credentialing programs.

Child care centers must be located in a Title 1 school district or have at least 25% POC enrollment. Family child care providers must have POC children in care.

Allowable Expenditures

Curriculum supplies, materials, and equipment needed to implement training received through the Credentialing Branch.

Projects must be in the areas of literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies.

The Child Care Quality Incentive Grant Program (CCQIG) is operated in accordance with regulations set forth at COMAR 13A.14.11. These regulations address all Program requirements, including eligibility and application procedures.

·For a CCQIG program guide, click here.The program guide explains the program in more detail, including application instructions, funding limits, how funding may be used, and lists of eligible and non-eligible expenses.

For further information about the Child Care Quality Incentive Grant, please e-mail the Collaboration and Program Improvement Branch at cori.ford@msde.state.md.us.

Contact Information

Cori Ford, Grant Manager, Collaboration and Program Development Branch

Division of Early Childhood DevelopmentMaryland State Department of Education